Ref. 28399-29STRONG-arm tactics have been used to raise money for Brimble Hill School. British number two arm wrestler and former national champion Julien Cini, 32, took on all comers for a £3 fee.

Brimble Hill caters for children with special needs, and Julien's sister, Rita, now 22, is a former pupil with happy memories of her time there.

Julien, who wrestles in the 80kg division, was joined by British heavyweight champion Nick Hall, 31, who also challenged the public.

Julien said: "The school really looked after my sister.

"The care given to the children who go there is completely genuine. It comes from the heart."

Those members of the public who did not wish to try their luck at the arm wrestling table in the town centre on Saturday were invited simply to make a donation instead, and Julien said he hoped to raise at least £100.

Among Julien's challengers, though, were the Evening Advertiser's own Alfie the alligator, who came off worst in the contest between man and reptile.

Another challenger was 12-year-old Lucy Saunders, from Wanborough, who said she enjoyed the contest very much.

"He is very strong," she added.